Looking back, I definitely would consider my visit to the Underwater Observatory and the ride on the glass bottom boat to rank among the highlights of my Okinawa holiday. So I'm truly sorry that the photos I took while I was safely from inside that wonderful facility just doesn't do that amazing experience any justice.

Still, with the thought that something is better than nothing, here's going ahead and offering up some photos taken while in that facility as well as of that facility and the glass bottom boat. As for the boat ride itself: I have to say that this happened to be one of the times where I was really so focused on the act of looking that I decided against doing anything that would distract from that activity such as attempting to take good and clear photographs of what could be seen under the sea -- but yes, it sure was a great experience, particularly because I got to see far more marine life (including many brightly colored fish but, also, beautiful blue-grey starfish, sea cucumbers of varying lengths and colors, and three seriously scary-looking striped sea snakes) over the course of the ride than I expected would be the case! :)

Two children play at the water's edge --with a glass bottom boat and the UnderwaterObservatory visible further in the distance

A closer look at the Underwater Observatoryand -- I kid you not -- the seafood restaurantlocated nearby! :O

It was so windy on the walkway out to theUnderwater Observatory that Puppet Ponyohad trouble standing up straight (and I worrieda bit that she would get blown into the sea!)

Fortunately, she and I (and my two friends) did manage to make it to the facility -- and down four meters inside of it -- without any mishap!

View of -- let me emphasize here -- marine life that areactually out in the sea (rather than in an aquarium!)

It was amazing to see the waters teeming with life!

Seemingly so little separated those of usinside the Underwater Observatoryfrom the life -- and sea water -- outside

Lest it not be obvious: I would most heartilyrecommend that a visit to Okinawa Honto includea ride on one of these glass bottom boats along witha visit to the Underground Observatory! :)